How long do wrist sprains take to heal?

Ligaments heal gradually after being stretched or torn. Early pain and swelling can make movement difficult; later, the main problem may be stiffness, weakness or a feeling that the wrist is unreliable. A mild injury and a substantial tear do not follow the same course. The ability to use the hand comfortably is more useful than a calendar date when judging progress.

For the first stage, avoid painful force, support the wrist if advised, and use a cloth-wrapped cold pack briefly for swelling. Keep the fingers moving and add gentle wrist motion as symptoms permit. [Physiotherapy](/treatments/physiotherapy-and-rehabilitation/physiotherapy/) can progress flexibility, grip and control without rushing the return to load. Information about [Splinting](/treatments/trauma-and-fracture-care/splinting/) may help you discuss support. See [Wrist Pain](/symptoms/wrist-pain/) for related symptom guidance.

Arrange an assessment when pain follows a strong impact, the wrist has an unusual shape, or you cannot rotate the forearm or move the hand normally. Urgent care is appropriate for numbness, cold or discoloured fingers, or rapidly worsening swelling. A review is also sensible when pain remains focal over a bone or progress has stalled, since a fracture can be mistaken for a sprain.

Ask how the injury was graded, whether a support should be worn continuously or during activities, how to progress exercises, and which tasks are safe before full recovery.